Bike Sharing Service is All the Rage in Pyeongyang

According to the Choson Sinbo, a North Korean newspaper, a bike sharing service is currently being trialed in the North Korean capital, with a total of five rental stations in operation on Kwangbok Street. (Image: Chosun Shinbo)

PYEONGYANG, Mar. 19 (Korea Bizwire) — Just like in Seoul, a bike sharing service is the hottest trend in Pyeongyang.

According to the Choson Sinbo, a North Korean newspaper, a bike sharing service is currently being trialed in the North Korean capital, with a total of five rental stations in operation on Kwangbok Street.

Another local media outlet, DPRK Today, also reported in January that a bike rental service would be introduced with a membership card named ‘Ryomyong’ that can be charged to rent a bicycle between 6 a.m. and midnight year round.

“More people are using the bike rental service. Not only commuters on the way to work and home but also seniors who want to exercise are riding bikes,” the Choson Sinbo reported.

Just like in Seoul, a bike sharing service is the hottest trend in Pyeongyang. (Image: Yonhap)

Bike sharing services are growing in popularity in cities around the world, with municipal governments hoping to tackle traffic, reduce air pollution, and provide another means of public transport for local residents.

Since its launch in 2014, Seoul’s bike rental system Seoul Bike has enjoyed growing popularity, reaching 1,290 rental stations and 20,000 bikes last year.

Ashley Song (ashley@koreabizwire.com)